Certificate In Psychology (CPSY) Practice Exam

What is a potential outcome for female embryos that produce high levels of testosterone?

1. All of the answers are correct.

2. development of external genitalia that show characteristics of both sexes

3. slower brain growth during the fetal period

4. greater preference for masculine-typed activities in childhood

The correct answer is: All of the answers are correct.

The potential outcomes for female embryos that produce high levels of testosterone can indeed encompass a variety of effects, which is why the assertion that "all of the answers are correct" is valid. When female embryos are exposed to elevated levels of testosterone, they may exhibit a condition known as congenital adrenal hyperplasia (CAH). This can lead to the development of external genitalia that resembles both male and female characteristics, integrating aspects of masculinization while still being biologically female. Additionally, the influence of testosterone on brain development could manifest as altered growth patterns, leading to different rates of brain maturation during the fetal period. This can affect cognitive and behavioral outcomes postnatally. Furthermore, exposure to higher levels of testosterone during critical periods of development has been associated with behavioral tendencies in childhood. Specifically, individuals may show a preference for activities traditionally seen as masculine, such as rough-and-tumble play or interests in vehicles, aligning with observed phenomena in behavioral psychology where hormone exposure can shape preferences and interests. Thus, the integration of these different outcomes underlines the complexity of fetal development influenced by hormonal factors, reinforcing the correctness of the statement that includes all the listed effects.